Finally, you have chosen to take the first step towards a perfect smile, the kind you have seen on TV, in magazines, and in movies throughout your life. Good News! The specialists and staff of Estes Orthodontics in Albany are here to guide, educate and support you in every step of your orthodontic journey.
We want to craft an individualized treatment plan specifically for you and your smile goals. When choosing to undergo orthodontic treatment with braces, there are many types of braces for you to consider.
Today we will be taking a closer look at ceramic braces, also known as clear braces, and how they can help you obtain your desired smile.
What Are Ceramic Braces in Albany?
Similar to the traditional metal braces we are most familiar with, ceramic braces are orthodontic appliances used to straighten teeth and fix bite problems.
Ceramic braces consist of clear or tooth-colored ceramic brackets attached to the surface of your teeth with similarly colored wires and rubber bands, which provide more discretion and hence are much less visible to the naked eye.
How Are Ceramic Braces Different From Metal Braces?
Ceramic braces and metal braces are similar in that they are both designed to achieve straight teeth, a healthy bite, and a perfect smile.
However, there is a significant difference between these braces, which is the material used to manufacture them.
Metal braces use brackets and wires made of medical-grade stainless steel, while ceramic ones use a material that can either be clear or the same color as your teeth.
Because traditional braces rely on stainless steel, for their durability, they are highly noticeable against your teeth.
Sometimes, they can make patients self-conscious about smiling in public or even with friends and family.
On the other hand, ceramic braces are more appealing to the majority of people undergoing orthodontic treatment because of their discreet appearance.
Do Ceramic Braces Stain more Easier Than Metal Braces?
Yes, the brackets and ligatures tend to stain or discolor over time because of the material used in their manufacture and their natural or clear color. Did you know this material exists thanks to a collaboration with NASA? You can read more on their site.
The point of receiving orthodontic treatment in Albany with clear or ceramic braces over metal braces is not seeing them. So, there are some things you will need to do to keep your ceramic braces spotless and virtually invisible to your friends, family, and colleagues.
How Do I Keep My Ceramic Braces Stain-free?
The idea of having clear braces, almost invisible, may sound great! And it is; however, there are some things you should avoid if you want to maintain your orthodontic appliance in tip-top shape. Here are a few practical ways to protect your invisible braces from any stains.
Our friends at Healthline also prepared a very comprehensive article on this treatment.
Quit If You Are a Smoker
Aside from the damage to your lungs, smoking also ruins your oral health. Smoking tends to stain your teeth as well as your ceramic braces.
The nicotine found in cigarettes gives the ligatures around your ceramic brackets a yellow appearance and can also leave deep stains on your teeth that are difficult to remove.
Avoid Foods That Stain
Fortunately, you won’t have to change your whole diet, but there are a few foods that you should stay away from, especially if you are wearing braces.
Red-colored foods such as tomatoes, beets, and tomato pastes may leave color on your clear ceramic braces.
You should also try keeping away from mustard as this tends to yellow the appearance of your brackets.
Lastly, avoid dark-colored drinks such as coffee and cola soda to prevent staining. If you can’t steer away from soda or coffee, try to use a straw for drinking them; this will help avoid contact between the staining liquid and your braces. Bonus points if you use a metal straw to reduce some waste.
Say No to Whitening Toothpaste
Contrary to popular belief, whitening toothpaste may work wonders to keep your pearly whites in perfect condition. It will ultimately do the opposite when it comes to your braces. Whitening toothpaste will discolor your brackets.
You might not notice it immediately, but eventually, once your braces are removed, you’ll see spots on your teeth where the brackets of your ceramic braces used to be.
The spots you will see are the parts of your teeth that the toothpaste did not reach.
How Much Do Ceramic Braces Cost?
Because of their virtually invisible appearance, this alternative is usually more expensive than traditional braces.
Ceramic braces in Albany can cost up to $8,000. However, it is essential to remember that each patient is different. It’s always best to consult with your Albany orthodontist based on your specific needs and individual treatment time.
How Do I Take Care of My Ceramic Braces?
The best way to take care of your ceramic braces in Albany is to follow and maintain a good oral hygiene routine.
This routine should include regular brushing and flossing, if possible, after every meal, including snacks. If you can’t brush, try to rinse your mouth after consuming sugary foods or drinks.
Rinse your mouth with mouthwash will also help by penetrating all the hard-to-reach places in your mouth. Always remember that excellent oral hygiene is the key to a healthy, happy smile and beautiful white teeth.
Ready to start your orthodontic journey with ceramic braces in Albany? If so, call us today at (510) 525-1772 to schedule an appointment. Remember, An Estes Orthodontics smile will help you confidently greet each day.
We look forward to welcoming you to our family.
